Partnering with a USA-based CNC manufacturer

Partnering with a USA-based CNC manufacturer offers a variety of strategic benefits to the customer and to our nation. Many industries today require machined components that involve high precision, coupled with short lead times. In addition, managing a supply chain that crosses foreign borders and maybe oceans, can present challenges beyond just the machining of the part. Any cost advantage sourced from outside the USA, can quickly disappear due to supply chain disruptions and inefficiencies. At Intrex Aerospace we think partnering with a USA-based CNC manufacturer, provides a reliable, efficient, cost-effective solution.

Several reasons on why consider a USA based CNC manufacturer:

Timing & Communication

 Working with a USA based manufacturer is usually easier for reasons of proximity and language. Being nearer your supplier source is better than being distant, especially if the distance involves crossing national borders or oceans. A location in the same or near the same time zone makes communication easier. If there are supply chain delays, changes, or quality concerns, it is easier to communicate with your supplier without having to deal with time zone or language constraints.

In aerospace, adjusting production schedules or making revision and design changes, is in many instances the norm, not the exception. Managing changes from a distance can be problematic. The language obstacles can limit communication, which makes collaboration more difficult.

Because of distance and language constraints, your solution time may shrink, reducing problem solving time and limiting your flexibility.

 Better Logistics – Faster Response Times

 Proximity to your supplier source can play a significant role in helping reduce lead times and meeting delivery schedules. Partnering with a U.S.-based CNC manufacturer with advantages of nearness and access to a good transportation system, often results in faster turnaround times of manufactured goods. One of the challenges dealing with overseas manufacturers is lengthy international shipping times. International freight often involves tariffs, long wait times, customs clearance, and unpredictable delays. Shipping costs are also a consideration.

A domestic manufacturing partner has an advantage controlling lead times and shipping costs. The lead time issue is especially critical in aerospace where revision and design changes are typical, making it economically unfeasible to build inventories up, to overcome shipping and logistic limitations.

Quality Control

Another reason to partner with USA-based CNC manufacturers is quality. USA manufacturers have in-place rigorous standards for guaranteeing that standards of precision and quality are met. At Intrex we are ISO 9001 and AS 9100 certified. These audited certifications ensure strict compliance to all called out specifications.

Once again, proximity to the customers can play a significant role in quickly identifying, communicating and resolving quality issues. It eliminates the problems communicating from a long distance, overcoming language barriers, or foreign suppliers who may not be familiar with regulatory requirements. At Intrex we are in constant contact with our customers, communicating order status and alerting them of potential quality or delivery issues. It works!

 ITAR Restrictions

Many contract CNC aerospace manufacturers provide parts for both commercial and defense applications. The products manufactured for defense fall under (ITAR) International Traffic in Arms Regulations. ITAR is a set of US government regulations that control the export and import of defense-related items and services. ITAR’s purpose is to protect national security and further foreign policy interests. ITAR applies to any defense products on the United States Munitions List (USML), which includes items like certain firearms, military aircraft, and military explosives. This prohibits almost all products from being produced outside the USA. Much of what Intrex Aerospace produces is under ITAR restrictions. We are familiar with ITAR and are ITAR compliant.

Job Creation

By choosing to manufacture within the U.S.A., companies contribute to job creation and the overall growth of the domestic manufacturing sector. The recent “Made in America” initiatives are viable, and the benefits are tangible. They add good paying jobs to our workforce. The Made in America focus also has a direct impact on our education system. There is a growing segment of our education system, at both high-school and college levels that address the technical skills necessary to support industry growth and fosters innovation within the U.S. manufacturing ecosystem. Additionally, this manufacturing support (both local and national) helps build a stronger, more resilient economy by reducing dependence on overseas supply chains.

 Summation

 The benefits of partnering with a USA-based CNC manufacturer are numerous. It ensures that high-quality standards and regulatory compliance are obeyed. Lead times are improved. Carrying excess inventories for emergency supply chain disruption are minimized. Shipping costs are lessened. Response times to problems that may arise are reduced. New jobs are created, helping grow our workforce. By growing our manufacturing base, with less reliance on foreign countries, our overall national security is strengthened. It’s a winning solution.

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